Potamology, as defined by Penck in 1897, includes the biological components of a river. The Mississippi River Geomorphology and Potamology Program seeks to address issues where the management of the hydrologic resources of the river affects biological and chemical components, such as habitat availability and the alteration of habitat. Of particular interest are the distribution and abundance of threatened and endangered species, benefits and impacts from channel improvement features, and water quality effects of Corps of Engineers projects.